University of Manchester President’s Doctoral Scholar (PDS) Award 2025 (Fully-funded)

International students are encouraged to apply for over 100 studentships offered annually by the University of Manchester through the President’s Doctoral Scholar Award scheme established by Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell. This award provides exceptional students from around the world with the opportunity to engage in research training with distinguished academics across various subjects.

Scholarship Sponsor(s): University of Manchester, UK

Scholarship Type: Full Funding

Host Institution(s): University of Manchester, UK

Study level: PhD Program

Scholarships Worth: All University tuition fees at the International rate

Number of Awards: 100+

Nationality: International students

Check out the Official Website for more details.

University of Manchester President’s Doctoral Scholar Award | DETAILS

The University will evaluate applications for these full scholarships once a formal offer is received. Application forms will be provided to the Primary Supervisor after issuance of an offer letter for a PhD program.

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates need to meet the following criteria:

• Hold a conditional/unconditional offer for a PhD program starting in September 2025;
• Have a first-class honours undergraduate degree or its international equivalent;
• Preferably hold a master’s-level qualification at merit or distinction or its international equivalent;
• Have a research engagement history, such as publications, promoting research, or research-related awards;
• Be willing to attend exclusive events to interact with academic communities and other PDS award recipients.

Scholarship Benefits

• Coverage of all university tuition fees at the international rate;
• An annual stipend at UKRI rate plus a £1,000 stipend enhancement.

PDS Award beneficiaries will get:

• Invitations to exclusive events to meet university leaders, network with scholars, and interact closely with academic communities;
• Access to international research guidance from renowned scholars;
• Opportunities to be a PDS Awards ambassador;
• Training in transferable skills for PhD researchers.

Application Procedures

How-to-Apply: Start by following regular admissions procedures and receive a conditional/unconditional PhD offer. Indicate your intent to apply for a PDS Award in the funding section of your application form. All PDS applications will be internally reviewed, with shortlisted candidates interviewed before final funding offers.

Application Deadline: March 24, 2025

For detailed information, visit the Official Website.

FAQs

What is the University of Manchester President’s Doctoral Scholar (PDS) Award 2025?

The University of Manchester President’s Doctoral Scholar (PDS) Award 2025 is a prestigious fully-funded scholarship designed to support outstanding doctoral candidates from around the world. It provides exceptional students with funding to pursue a PhD at the University of Manchester, covering tuition fees, a generous stipend, and research support. The award aims to attract top academic talent who demonstrate excellence in their previous studies and research potential.

Who is eligible to apply for the University of Manchester PDS Award 2025?

Applicants must have an outstanding academic track record, typically holding a first-class bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree with distinction or equivalent. They should have a strong research proposal aligned with the expertise of the University of Manchester’s academic departments. The scholarship is open to both UK and international students, and candidates must secure an offer of admission for a full-time PhD program before being considered for the award.

What does the University of Manchester PDS Award 2025 cover?

The PDS Award 2025 provides full coverage of tuition fees at the international rate, an annual maintenance stipend to cover living expenses, and a research training support grant. This funding ensures recipients can focus entirely on their research without financial constraints. The award is typically granted for a period of three to four years, depending on the duration of the doctoral program.

How can one apply for the University of Manchester PDS Award 2025?

To apply, candidates must first apply for admission to a PhD program at the University of Manchester. After securing an offer, eligible applicants will be nominated for the PDS Award by their academic school. Applicants are required to submit a strong research proposal, academic transcripts, references, and evidence of academic excellence. Deadlines vary by department, but applications are usually submitted several months before the start of the academic year in September 2025.